Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that prohibits online sweepstakes casinos in Mississippi.

Highlights:

• Amends state law to include any online, interactive, or computerized version of any game as defined in section 75-76-5 or any other game of chance or digital simulation thereof, including, but not limited to, online race books, online sports pools, and online sweepstakes casino-style games, to be declared to be a gambling device (Sec. 1-3).

• Specifies that the offering for play or operating an online or interactive platform that offers such games for playing within the state of Mississippi shall be deemed unlawful under the provisions of this bill (Sec. 1-3).

• Increases the potential penalty for sweepstakes operators from a misdemeanor to a felony, with each violation potentially resulting in a fine of no more than $100,000 or imprisonment for up to 10 years (Sec. 1-3).

• Specifies that operators could also face forfeiture to the state of “assets, rights, and privileges” in connection with the violation (Sec. 1-3).

• Specifies that the provisions of this bill shall take effect July 1, 2025 (Sec. 4).

Full Bill Text

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that prohibits online sweepstakes casinos in Mississippi.

Highlights:

• Amends state law to include any online, interactive, or computerized version of any game as defined in section 75-76-5 or any other game of chance or digital simulation thereof, including, but not limited to, online race books, online sports pools, and online sweepstakes casino-style games, to be declared to be a gambling device (Sec. 1-3).

• Specifies that the offering for play or operating an online or interactive platform that offers such games for playing within the state of Mississippi shall be deemed unlawful under the provisions of this bill (Sec. 1-3).

• Increases the potential penalty for sweepstakes operators from a misdemeanor to a felony, with each violation potentially resulting in a fine of no more than $100,000 or imprisonment for up to 10 years (Sec. 1-3).

• Specifies that operators could also face forfeiture to the state of “assets, rights, and privileges” in connection with the violation (Sec. 1-3).

• Specifies that the provisions of this bill shall take effect July 1, 2025 (Sec. 4).

Full Bill Text